The written order will come late tonight or tomorrow — but it is clear that the bald faced lies told by Charles Ezell — a Musk guy at OPM… were infuriating to the preeminent USDC Senior Judge Alsup (a Clinton appointee, and a former Justice William O. Douglas / Supreme Court law clerk). [One of my many recent backgrounders, on this bit of litigation is here.]

So he has orally ordered (immediately, from the bench — during the hearing) that tens of thousands of probationary US agency employees (including HUD?) must be reinstated, to their federal jobs… right now.

They cannot be “forced” to go back to work, but they are owed paychecks from the last four weeks, and can now decide whether they want to keep their positions. The judge also ruled that OPM has no power to issue any subsequent “guidance” to other agencies, about HR / Firing / Hiring matters.

…Preliminary Injunction Hearing held on 3/13/2025. Court granted and extended TRO as stated on the record. Court directed counsel to file briefs by 3/21/2025, 12:00 noon, 10 pages in length as stated on the record. Memorandum Opinion to issue….

Initial Case Management Conference not held. Still, discovery open; parties to comply with all rules and standing orders….

Court further stated plaintiffs may depose Noah Peters in Washington, D.C.; Government to make him available for 3 hours within two weeks….

[More soon….]

Smiling onward — well done, Willinator!

नमस्ते